How to Overcome Writer's Block

​Seasoned authors, jobbing writers, poets, and bloggers; all writers, new and old, have one thing in common. The dreaded writer’s block. It might not happen all of the time, but there are occasions when we find ourselves staring at a blank screen, the cursor blinking as if to taunt us. It could be because we might not know what to write, or perhaps we just can’t articulate it in the way we want. So how do we overcome it? How do we beat writer’s block to ensure we keep creating our unique art form? This guide has some suggestions to refresh your senses and bring new life to your writing.​

Turn Off DistractionsDoes your phone keep ringing or beeping with texts? Do you have lots of tabs open on your browser? Or maybe you want to refresh your email once more? It could be that all these things are competing for your attention, leaving you less inclined to write. When you need to write, turn off all the things that will keep you from doing so, and don’t turn them on again until you have finished what you need to do. Perhaps set yourself a limit; you will only check your emails after you’ve written a set number of words or pages. It may be the motivation you need!

Change of SceneryOne way to get back your writer’s mojo is to experience a different place for a while. That could mean going for a walk or even taking your writing to a new place. You might consider a short stay in a vacation cottage where you can focus on your work, setting up your office at the park, or taking a road trip in a nearly new Nissan. The location isn’t really important; you just need a new experience to get your creativity back.

Write SomethingIt might sound odd when talking about writer’s block, but getting anything down on paper or your screen will help get your brain in writing mode. You could try freewriting, where you pour out anything that comes to mind. Another way to overcome writer’s block is to write a plan of the piece you are working on. Seeing something as a bunch of smaller tasks feels much more achievable than settling down to write a whole book.

Create Good HabitsSome writers believe that they can only write when feeling inspired, but that can be a problem if they are not inspired when they have time to write. Good writing comes from training yourself to write, even though you don’t feel like it. You will be amazed at what you can achieve, just by starting something. Write every day, and soon it will become a habit that sees writer’s block pushed firmly aside.

There are always times when a writer feels the struggle of actually getting words out onto a page, but there are ways to overcome writer’s block. Getting outside, taking a break and developing good writing practice will help get you back in the flow and allow you to get on with your writing job. So, no more excuse! Turn off distractions, focus, and you’ll soon meet your writing goals for the day.